Samsung Electronics and Japanese operator KDDI signed an agreement to expand their collaboration in the 5G network business in Japan.
Under the terms of the new deal, the companies will “verify and assess optimal 5G network solutions” for enterprises to improve user experiences and enhance productivity.
Samsung and KDDI say they will verify 5G use cases for enterprises, and develop new business models to help Japanese enterprises to explore new business opportunities in the 5G field. The business customers can choose KDDI as their network manager, and decide whether to use KDDI’s existing network infrastructure or develop their own 5G network.
“Through our 5G Business Co-creation Alliance, we are pleased to collaborate with Samsung on driving new business opportunities for enterprise customers”, said Akihito Fujii, general manager for KDDI’s Service Planning and Development Division Solution for the business sector. “With Samsung, KDDI will drive digital transformation, unlocking new value by enhancing user experiences for both consumers and business alike.”
“We are excited to deliver our advanced private 5G network solutions to help build a fast and reliable network for enterprises in Japan,” said Satoshi Iwao, vice president and head of the network division at Samsung Electronics Japan. “In collaboration with KDDI, Samsung will continue to deliver on the full potential of private 5G networks, which will play a central role in transforming enterprises and introducing innovative new services to business users.”
KDDI launched its 5G wireless services on March 26 in 15 prefectures across the country.
The carrier has also announced plans to install 10,000 base stations by the end of March 2021 and another 10,000 by the end of March 2022.
KDDI President Makoto Takahashi previously said that the company expects to attract over 2 million 5G users by the end of fiscal 2020, adding the figure is expected to be slightly lower compared to the launch of 4G services.
Samsung noted that it has supported 5G commercial service in leading markets, including Korea and the U.S., and is supporting the expansion of 5G in Japan. In addition, the company is expanding its global footprint to new markets, including Canada and New Zealand.
